Thank you to Bookouture for the opportunity to read An Impossible Choice and provide a review. Childhood cancer is one of the most heartbreaking situations to read about. It is difficult to get through without tears, and I didn’t. Honour has experienced so much loss already, having lost her husband in an accident. Now her daughter is fighting cancer, and possibly her brother can save her, but the needed bone marrow transplant will put him at risk too. This is a choice no parent wants to face.

This is an extremely touching and heartbreaking read. It is hard to fathom what a parent has to go through when their child has cancer, and Honour has already experienced one shattering loss. Honours desperation, guilt, and the hardships a parent has to go through when their child has cancer are all honestly portrayed by the author. The moments when Honour has to tell both her children, who have just lost their father, the bad news, are perfectly done. I like the fact that the families of cancer patients need help, and the way the help was offered and accepted was heartfelt. This is a compelling story with a sad topic and a surprise that will shake you up. I received a free copy of this book from Bookouture. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.

My review is 4.5 stars, round up to five on sites with no half-star option

What an emotional story this is. A wonderful read but heart wrenching at the same time. (Tissues needed.) A couple of twists that I wasnt expecting but a book that will stay with me for a long time.
Many thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for an honest review

BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'An Impossible Choice' by Alison Ragsdale.

Well ladies and gents if you are looking for a tear jerker you have come to the right place!!! This book has been beautifully written and it completely drew me in with its vivid descriptions. The storyline and synopsis worked perfect for this book.

The storyline is stunningly devastating and it had me on the edge of my seat throughout. It is such a powerful storyline that will stay with me for a long time if not forever!!!. It was filled with love, heartbreak, grief, family and loss and I was completely absorbed throughout. If you have ever read 'P. S I love you', 'Me before you' or 'My Sisters keeper' and enjoyed them then this book is definitely for you!! It is a beautiful story of love, loss, love, pain, forgiveness, hope and so much more!! It covers some in depth serious subjects such as cancer so please consider this before beginning this book! I am a mum to three children myself and OMG I could not even begin to imagine what on Earth I would do in Honour's position and I hope to God that I never have to find out!! However, Alison's powerful, emotive and evocative descriptions really does put you in Honour's place in the book and the tears I cried could fill a bathtub so make sure you have those tissues by your side ready and the rest of your day cleared!! I was absolutely dragged into this storyline and my heart was in my throat on several occasions while I had tears streaming down my face. Alison really does have such a talented gift in being able to write these absolutely stunning stories that absolutely absorb the reader. Every time I cam to the end of a chapter and thought I could put it down I just couldn't stop thinking about what came next and would just have to pick it back up again. Alison always writes such thought provoking books and always leaves the reader questioning what they would do if they were in that position. Make sure you clear your schedules before turning a single page on this beautifully gorgeous tear jerking page turner!!! This book would make an absolutely stunning movie, as would all of Alison's amazing books and I would definitely be first in the queue to watch them!! An absolutely incredible author who tugs on my heart strings each and every single time I pick up one of her amazing and powerful books!!

An absolute roller coaster ride of emotions, make sure you have the tissues ready because you will need them!!!

The characters were well defined, realistic and strong. I cannot even begin to imagine the pain, shock, suffering, grief and challenges that Honour was going through, especially as a Mum myself, such a strong and passionate woman. However it wasn't just Honour that was strong but also 11 year old Tara and 8 year old Callum who had all that to go through whilst being just a children. The fact that my children are 11 and 6 also made this book touch my heart even more!! My heart was completely broken reading their story but where there is rain always look out for the rainbow and watching the bond develop between these strong characters was beautiful to watch. I won't say more than that as I don't want to spoil it for future readers. This book absolutely grabbed my heart and mind and didn't let go while bringing tears to my eyes and I do not cry easily unless it comes to animals. So do make sure you have tissues at the ready!! Although this book brought me to tears I also think that it ended perfectly and would absolutely love to see this made into a film!!! Alison this is why your my go to author for a tear jerker and one of my favourite authors ever!!

Congratulations Alison on yet another gorgeous success and here's to your next one 🥂!!

Overall a devastatingly, heart-breaking and yet beautiful story that will leave you in tears.

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Welp yall, Alison has done it AGAIN! This woman truly knows how to write a book that gets you all in your feels. Think of the movie “Beaches” and you’ll know what I’m speaking of.

After her husband dies, a woman’s daughter is diagnosed with cancer. Not only are they still reeling from his death but, now facing a tumultuous cancer battle. It’s a rare form of cancer at that so, only a few would be able to give their bone marrow to help her. However her little brother has Ménière’s disease so, he’s already dealing with enough for his little body. The fight is on to find a donor and save her sweet girl.

Truly a heart breaking story but also a story of hope, love, courage, and forgiveness. I’m pretty sure it’s the saddest book I’ve read all year and I’m here for it. Sometimes you just need a good cry and this story fit the bill. Womens fiction is not Womens fiction without the name of Alison Ragsdale. Her writing is unmistakable and that’s a wonderful thing. I loved it and for that reason I’m giving it five stars.

I’m so fortunate to read Alison Ragsdale’s stellar contemporary women’s fiction novels through Bookouture. Her writing grabs me, brings my heart in & has me invested until the end. She writes emotionally charged stories about family, love, loss, forgiveness, & finding new ways to happiness despite life's toughest challenges. 

This book pulled me in, tugged at my heartstrings and is one of the best of 2024 for me. It’s heartbreaking; about parenting, loss & finding light in the darkest of times. While heart-wrenching, Ragsdale’s writing is so exceptional, I can’t recommend it enough.

Thank you, Alison Ragsdale, Bookouture & netgalley, for my copy. All opinions are my own.

Grab the tissues because this had me sobbing at 2am, what an incredible and moving read, a complete emotional rollercoaster! Well written, thought provoking & difficult topics covered sensitively. This is my first book by this author but it won’t be my last and although fiction it really put things into perspective. The only reason this isn’t a 5⭐️ is because I found some of the twists predictable.


★ ★ ★ ★
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Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to review this book.

Alison Ragsdale once again showcases her remarkable storytelling prowess in "An Impossible Choice," evoking profound emotions and empathy from readers through her adept character development and poignant narrative. The novel intricately explores the intricate facets of parental dilemmas, loss, and resilience in the face of adversities. Ragsdale's ability to seamlessly intertwine joy and sorrow throughout the story creates a deeply moving and authentic reading experience, compelling readers to reflect on the complexities of life's toughest decisions.

The portrayal of Honour, a mother faced with an unimaginable decision of saving one child at the potential risk of another, serves as the focal point of the novel, delving into themes of sacrifice, love, and the relentless pursuit of hope amidst despair. Ragsdale masterfully weaves together a tale of grief and courage, drawing readers into the intricate web of emotions that encompass the characters' struggles and triumphs. Through the vivid depiction of familial dynamics and unwavering support from the community, the novel underscores the enduring power of human connection and solidarity in times of crisis.

With a narrative that skillfully navigates the complexities of life-altering choices and unforeseen challenges, "An Impossible Choice" captivates readers with its poignant exploration of human resilience and the enduring bonds of family. Ragsdale's evocative prose and nuanced characterizations resonate with readers, offering a compelling portrayal of the indomitable strength found in the face of adversity. Through its heartfelt storytelling and emotionally charged themes, the novel leaves a lasting impact on readers, inviting them to contemplate the profound depths of love, loss, and the enduring hope that sustains us through life's most trying moments. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the advance review copy in exchange for my honest review.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you Bookouture for inviting me to be part of the Books on Tour for “An Impossible Choice”. This is my first book by Alison Ragsdale but she jumped to a must read author for me with this gut wrenching story.
Tissue Alert!
Honour is mom with two sick children. By choosing to save her daughter, she would put her son at grave risk. No mom should ever have to make that choice.
This book had many twists and turns and it will stay with you long after you finish it. If you want to read a book that will really make you feel, this book is for you! I am looking forward to reading more books by this author. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#AnImpossibleChoice #AlisonRagsdale #BooksThatMakeYouCry #NetGalley #Bookouture #BooksOnTour #BookLove #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks

Alison Ragsdale has once again graced us with her outstanding ability to spin a story that will forever change us. Not only did I cry a bucket load of tears while reading An Impossible Choice but, I carried the sadness of the characters with me in my heart. I don’t know how you could possibly read this book and not feel profound empathy for Honour and her family.

I have found Ms. Ragdale has a way of developing characters that I find hard to dismiss. They wiggle their way into my heart and won’t let me go. I actually started this book on Saturday evening as I was getting ready to go to sleep and only read a few pages. I couldn’t put it down once I picked it back up again. I had to know what was going on with the people.

Tissue warning. Please make sure you have tissues next to you while reading this book. I was a blubbering mess within the first ten percent of this book. This book had times of complete joy to counteract the sadness. I do have to tell you what you find on the cover of this book will give you some idea of what you will be dealing with. Sickness of a child and the decisions that need to be made can tear your heart into a million pieces.

The storyline was believable and not at all contrived. You will have some good surprises along the way. The family has friends and a town that rallies around them to help with the hard times they are facing. It always warms my heart when you see people willing to step up and help out when needed. It always means so much. I will have to say that this book pulled a full spectrum of emotions out of me.

If you love a heartfelt book. One that will pull at your heartstrings and one that will make you hopeful and joyful then An Impossible Choice should be on your radar and on your nightstand. 

I will forever be a fan of Alison Ragsdale. Nobody can make me connect with my feelings and heart the way she does. If you haven’t read anything by her, you don’t know what you are missing. Until next time…Happy Reading!

Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review!

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author, Bookouture and Netgalley. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

"An Impossible Choice" is a narrative brimming with emotional themes. It often brought me to tears, compelling me to reach for tissues. Although the subject matter made it a challenging read, I am grateful to have experienced it.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my ARC.

Oh my goodness! This incredible book pulled at all my heart strings. Filled with love and loss, pain and forgiveness, hope and gratitude, I adored every emotionally wrenching moment.

It is an impossible choice indeed, that Honour has to face when her daughter is diagnosed with cancer and only a bone marrow transplant from her son can save her. But Callum has Menières and harvesting his bone marrow puts him at risk too.

How can a mother choose between her children? But then there’s a shocker of a twist and everything is turned spectacularly on its head!

Alison Ragdale’s writing is completely immersive, the pacing is spot on and the writing flowed well. A stunning book.

5 ⭐️ Thanks to Netgalley, Alison Ragsdale and Bookouture, for an ARC in return for an honest review.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to read this book from one of my favourite authors who always gets right to the heart of human emotion in their books. This story was no exception and was a heartbreaking emotional roller coaster of a read which makes you question how lucky you are and to also think about what you would do if faced with a similar situation.

This story covers a lot of health issues in a very sensitive way and brings them to the forefront and educates readers about conditions they might not previously have much knowledge off.

As always with this reader once I had started reading I couldn’t put it down and read in practically one sitting. This is a book that will stay with you long after you have finished reading. And will definitely require a box of tissues.

I have never been disappointed by one of Alison Ragsdale’s books. An Impossible Choice was no exception. It drew me in right from the start and I felt an instant connection to Honour, Kenny and their family and the author dives right into the first tragedy leaving you feeling a bit bereft. She then gives you some backstory to help develop the view of the family and what led up to the tragedy. But this was just the beginning and you will need more tissues to get through the rest of the book. This family has way too much to go through. There are unexpected twists and turns and hard decisions no one ever wants to have to make. I highly recommend!

Thanks to Netgalley, the author, Alison Ragsdale and her publisher, Bookouture for an ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.

This book was a page turner. My first Alison Ragsdale book did not disappoint! With so many plot twists, I didn't want to put it down! Honour shows us the level of love a mother has for her children in the face of so many different trials. Her strength was truly unmatched. Make sure you have some tissues because this one made my eyes leak a bit!

This book was really good. I got sucked in from the start and didn't want to put it down.

That said, I did feel as though it was predictable. If that is by design, and the author wanted the reader to figure things out, then Bravo to the author. I'm guessing it's supposed to be shocked as the main feeling throughout the book.

The story is gripping and kept me reading. I would recommend this book.

Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I enjoyed An Impossible Choice. This is a real gut-wrenching, tear-jerker of a book, the kind that grabs a hold of your heart and gives a good tug. It winded me which doesn’t happen very often. I love the fact the book is set in Fife, my favourite place in Scotland. My favourite village, Anstruther even gets a mention which delighted me. My heart was in my mouth as I read this, wondering where Honour’s next blow would come from and wondering how things would turn out with her daughter. This is a gripping, engrossing read. I’d recommend it.

This is your typical Alison Ragsdale book. Take your heart and stomp on it then mend it back together all the while laughing and knowing that she is still going to make you pay. Make your heart lurch. Make you weep. Right when I thought it was going to be ok I had a moment that made me literally gasp. And cry so hard. It was in the Epilogue of all places. I did not see it coming. I was floored.

This story is about a family. One that you think is almost perfect. Almost but not quite. I loved them all and felt their pain when Kenny fell overboard. When Honour could not hold on any longer. Then after going through that, the worse pain ever, she finds out her daughter has cancer. A fairly rare cancer and needs a bone marrow transplant. What more can happen to this family.

I loved Honour until I didn't anymore. I finally forgave her but it took a lot. If it was anyone else I would have been ok. But not in this case. And then when I kept hoping that Kenny wasn't dead. I wanted him to come back so bad. I wanted Tara to be ok. For Callum to be ok. For this family to heal and move forward. This story made my heart hurt. Made my eyes hurt. But it was also so good. I know that is crazy but it's true. This author makes you crazy with emotions. Then she reaches in and twists the knife one last time...

Read this one with a few boxes of kleenex. You'll need them.

Thank you #NetGalley, #AlisonRagsdale, #Bookouture, for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.

Five big stars.

First, I want to thank Alison Ragsdale, Bookouture and NetGalley for providing me with this book so I can bring you this review.

Warning you are going to want to grab your box of tissues and clear your schedule for the day. Alison Ragsdale’s An Impossible Choice is an incredibly emotionally filled book that pulls hard on your heartstrings. No parent should have to be put in the situation she was put in or choose the outcome..it was just sad. I wish I could have lept into the book and comforted her.

Alison doesn’t waste any time jumping into the fast paced prologue detailing the intense horror at sea that Kenny and his wife Honour were experiencing. It was an action packed scene that you would see in a movie. I was at the edge of my comfy chair dying to know what was going to happen to Kenny!

From the prologue the book jumps back three weeks prior to the events that occurred at sea. It is here we get to know Kenny a little bit more along with meeting the other characters.

Alison educates her readers on Ménière’s a disease that one of her character’s Callum suffers from.

So many times I just wanted to jump into the book and give the characters a comforting hug! There were just so many tragedies, heartache, pain and grief many characters were facing.

I’d like to thank Bookouture and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read ‘An Impossible Choice’ written by Alison Ragsdale in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.

Honour doesn’t believe she’ll ever get over the loss of her husband Kenny when he’s lost at sea after going over the side of his fishing boat during rough weather. But when their eleven-year-old daughter Tara is diagnosed with a rare form of cancer Honour knows that in Kenny’s absence she must be strong and be both mother and father to Tara and Callum, eight.

‘An Impossible Choice’ is the incredibly moving story of a mother who has to make the most heartbreaking decision of her life, whether to risk her son’s health in order to save her daughter. It’s a beautiful novel that I found touching as the community gathered together to support Honour and her family, and although I thought one of the twists was slightly unbelievable it didn’t detract from what I found to be an incredible novel that thoughtfully and sensitively covered the subjects of childhood Cancer and Meniere’s Disease. I was in tears for part of the story and thankful for my own children’s health. I congratulate Alison for writing such a wonderful story that will stay in my thoughts for some time to come.

I was completely gripped by this story.

After finishing the book, the publisher asks if Honour and her family's tale broke my heart. While it didn't feel like my heart was simply split in two, the emotional impact shattered it into countless pieces.

I was moved by the support and love Honour received during her tough times. Her children, Cal and Tara, showed incredible strength through it all.

The only letdown for me was Kenny, Honour's husband. While I understand his struggles, he needed to have more faith and realize the pain he caused his family. It was comforting to see him eventually come around.

This emotional story brought tears to my eyes and still lingers with me. It's a reminder of how lucky we are compared to some people facing similar struggles.

Even though fiction, these events reflect real hardships for some. Stories like this put our own problems in perspective and remind us of our blessings.

A moving and powerful story that offers a fresh outlook on life. Definitely deserving of 5 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC! Comes out June 7th!